Craftsman CMEC6150K Review
Editor Rating: 4.7/5
Great Product
Craftsman CMEC6150K Review
Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson Last modified:- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Craftsman CMEC6150K Review Summary:
The Craftsman CMEC6150K is one lightweight, budget-friendly unit that would appeal to both newcomers to air-powered tools and seasoned DIYers, as well as a backup for craftsmen.
This oil-free compressor pumps a solid 150 PSI max air pressure and delivers 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI. With this juice in a 6-gallon tank, you can inflate anything but trailer tires — and power light air tools.
Furthermore, it weighs only 30 pounds, so it’s more than manageable to move around between tasks. Plus, you’ll come to like the comfort of its precise and robust handle.
Craftsman seem to have an eye for ergonomic designs that can be seen all around the CMEC6150K. The control panel meets industry-standard — easy-to-read regulator dials, smooth-rolling regulator knob, and opposite-facing attachment couplers.
The compressor is accompanied by a 13 piece accessory kit — offering a hose, blow guns, and various pump attachments. And, in the event of defects, this unit has a one-year warranty.
All in all, Craftsman delivers spectacularly in the overall design and durability of this machine. This reiterates their century-long culture of producing quality, pro-grade tools at reasonable prices. The CMEC6150K is the brand’s mid-size offering from its compressor line-up, ranging from 2.5 to 33-gallon tanks.
CMEC6150K Specifications:
- Tank capacity – 6 gallons
- Max pressure – 150 PSI
- Air flow – 2.6 @ 90 PSI
- Weight – 30 pounds
Pros:
Portable and lightweight.
Satisfactory air pressure for light and medium tasks.
User-friendly control panel.
Value for money.
Ample air storage.
Cons:
Not the quietest pancake compressor.
Lacks instructions for attachments.
Features and Benefits of the Craftsman CMEC6150K
The Craftsman CMEC6150K is a bold-looking compressor with plenty of features that appeal to homeowners and handymen. Now, let’s take a deeper look at the benefits you can enjoy.
0.8 Horsepower Motor
The CMEC6150K has an 0.8 horsepower motor, which pumps air efficiently into the tank. Despite being relatively low-powered, it has a fast fill-up and recovery time — enabling you to carry out your project with minimal downtime. It should take about three minutes to fill the tank from empty to its 150 PSI max air pressure. Afterward, it kicks on automatically for a refill when air drops below a certain threshold — 120 PSI. Not to forget. This rugged motor has no issues starting up in any weather, which includes cold winters.
Respectable Air Delivery
It goes without saying that this compressor has mid-level brawn — offering a max 150 PSI air pressure while delivering 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI. Coupled with its 6-gallon tank, it’s a highly competent tire inflator and up to par tool-based pancake compressor. With this rating, the Craftsman CMEC6150K carries out inflation tasks effortlessly and permits a decent job of running smaller quick-use air tools. It’s more than capable of pumping car or small truck tires, powering blow guns for cleaning and drying, or operating brad, roofing, or framing nailers. However, if you intend to use tools that command a constant supply of air, like paint sprayers, sanders, or drills — you may be disappointed.
Portable
The portability of the CMEC6150K is commendable. For one, it weighs only thirty pounds and has a large handle, so carrying it is a breeze. Not only that, if you’re working in a limited space, you may appreciate its small footprint — 16.5 x 16.5 x 17.88 inches. And, this also applies when you’re storing or transporting — it won’t take up much room in a garage or back of a truck. Overall, I feel the Craftsman CMEC6150K balances off power and size pretty well.
User-Friendly
In my opinion, there are no learning curves to master with this compressor. All its controls are straightforward and nothing out-of-the-ordinary. Speaking of which, it has the modern-style regulator dial, which faces upwards and displays bold numbers. This simple design allows you to keep tabs on the compressor pressure, whether you’re filling tires or nailing down decking. Another seemingly minor but thoughtful design on the CMEC6150K is its dual couplers. With the ports opposite each other, using multiple tools won’t turn into a web of hoses. One more nice touch is that the handle doubles as a cord wrap. It allows convenient storage and prevents kinks in the cable. Plus, the next time you drag the unit out of the garage, you’ll avoid wasting hours unraveling knots.
Accessory Kit
As mentioned earlier, this compressor is revered for the valuable accessories in its package. The 13-piece kit contains:
- Ready-to-use 25-foot x 0.25-inch hose.
- Tire chuck complete with plug.
- Blow gun and plug.
- Three inflator adaptors.
- Tire gauge.
- Blow gun — including an OSHA safety nozzle.
Noise Level
The Craftsman CMEC6150K has a noise rating of 82 decibels. Granted, the volume it produces isn’t the lowest around. And, on a human scale, that’s a tad louder than a power mower — in a confined space. However, that’s not surprising for an air compressor. Hence, you should wear ear protection when you use the machine for long periods. Finally, if you’ve got easily annoyable neighbors or reside in a community with strict noise rules, you may wish to seek a quieter option.
Craftsman CMEC6150K Specifications
| Craftsman CMEC6150K | |
|---|---|
| Max PSI | 150 PSI |
| Capacity @ 90 PSI | 2.6 CFM |
| Tank size | 6-gallon (22.7 liters) |
| Quick connector size | 0.25 inches (6.4 mm) |
| Power supply | Electric corded |
| Noise rating | 82 decibels |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 16.5 x 16.5 x 17.88 inches |
| Weight | 30 pounds (13.5 kg) |
| Couplers | Dual |
| Amps | Oil-free |
| Warranty | One-year |
What Users Say About The Craftsman CMEC6150K
For me, the Craftsman is a value-for-money machine that will satisfy the needs of first-time compressor users or those looking for a ready-to-run, reliable, and portable unit.
However, to offer you an unbiased review, you need to know what real users of the compressor have to say. In this light, I’ve summarized the feedback of many owners.
Firstly, they speak highly of its portable, lightweight design. Many — even experienced power tool users — enjoy how they can move it around with ease.
Secondly, its performance is well received — it does an excellent job of inflating tires — bicycle, car, semi-truck, RV – and running basic air tools. What’s more, it can be used for maintenance or cleaning tasks with a blow gun.
Customers also love the general fuss-free operation of the CMEC6150K. And, the accessories are welcomed by many, the fact you can use it straight-outta-the-box for multiple tasks is a winner.
However, some users find the absence of a manual for the accessories a challenge. Plus, the noise level of the motor is anything but commendable.
Alternatives to the Craftsman CMEC6150K
Have a feature in mind that you can’t find in the Craftsman? Here are some alternatives that might be tailored to your requirements.
If you’re looking to do more than inflate tires, perhaps run more nailers with your crew, the Metabo HPT EC914SM could appeal.
This machine boasts an industry-leading 200 max PSI air pressure and air delivery of 4.0 CFM @ 90 PSI. You can perform a wider range of tasks and use beefier tools, such as an impact wrench. However, at 41 pounds, it’s more than 10 pounds heavier.
- More powerful than the Craftsman by a mile.
- Supports a maximum of five nailers, compared to the two of the Craftsman.
- More expensive — even without accessories — than the CMEC6150K.
Perhaps you don’t want to disturb the neighbors or intend to use the compressor indoors. Thus a less vocal option, like the DeWalt DWFP55126, may be the solution.
Running at 75.5 decibels, this unit is not only quieter, but more powerful — it supplies a 165 max PSI and 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI. That’s a little more grunt to run nail guns and pump up tires — even more efficiently.
- Considerably quieter than the Craftsman’s 82 decibels — noise rating of 75.5 decibels.
- Slightly higher air pressure reserve — 165 max PSI compared to 150 PSI of the Craftsman.
- Price is comparable — although the DeWalt doesn’t include accessories.
If you’re seeking a price-friendly pancake, but already have the attachments, take a look at the Bostitch BTFP02012.
It has almost identical features and specs as the Craftsman — 150 max PSI and air delivery of 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI with a 6-gallon tank. And, they’re both lightweight and painless to operate.
- The Bostitch is quieter than the Craftsman — 78.5 decibels vs. 82 decibels.
- Both compressors run oil-free pumps.
- Lower in price, compared to the CMEC6150K.
Conclusion
With the capacity to hold 150 PSI and deliver 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI, the Craftsman offers respectable performance, even with a pocket-friendly price point.
Its compact size and lightweight build mean you’ll have no issues carrying it, and the compressor’s operational simplicity makes it ideal for the less-experienced user as well as the veteran DIYer.
What’s more, the inclusion of an accessory kit saves you the added hassles and costs of purchasing separately.
Hence, if you’re looking for a value-for-money, portable and functional air compressor for inflating tires, nailing, and general maintenance, you’re heading in the right direction — check out the Craftsman CMEC6150K.
Craftsman CMEC6150K FAQs
Q: Are Craftsman Air Compressors Any Good?
Yes. Craftsman air compressors are proven to be as reliable as their power tools. And they go for the same reasonable price we’ve come to expect from the brand.Q: Where Are Craftsman Compressors Made?
Craftsman compressors are assembled in Jackson, Tennessee, USA. However, many of the parts used are sourced in Japan and China.Q: Is the Craftsman CMEC6150K Made by Stanley Black & Decker?
Technically, yes, because Stanley Black & Decker is the parent company of Craftsman. Nonetheless, Craftsman still manufactures independently, therefore, are makers of the CMEC6150K compressor.Q: Can the CMEC6150K Inflate Tires and Work With Nail Guns?
Absolutely! The CMEC6150K has a max 150 PSI pressure and delivers 2.6 SCFM @ 9 PSI, and a 6-gallon tank — more than enough to inflate bicycles, cars, pick-ups, and semi-trucks and to power most nailers.Q: Where Can I Find the Manual for the Craftsman CMEC6150K?
The manual is readily available online. For rapid access to the Craftsman CMEC6150K Manual.
Follow Us
